Belgian Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).

Step 2: Brush a meatloaf pan with 1 teaspoon of melted butter.

Step 3: Soak the breadcrumbs in 3/4 cup of milk.

Step 4: While the bread is soaking, assemble the herbs and spices. You can use about a teaspoon of dry poultry seasoning as an alternative.

Step 5: In a medium skillet, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter.

Step 6: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes.

Step 7: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes.

Step 8: Add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute.

Step 9: In a mixing bowl, add the ground beef and egg. Squeeze the bread crumbs dry and add them to the bowl.

Step 10: Add the sautéed onion mixture, minced herbs, spices, port wine, and cognac to the bowl. Mix well. (You can also add about 2 ounces of Swiss cheese at this point.)

Step 11: Place the meat mixture in the prepared pan and top with the rosemary sprig (or bacon).

Step 12: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Step 13: Reduce the heat to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Step 14: Bake for another 15 minutes.

Step 15: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.